BAR DIVA GLASSING: THUG GETS FIVE YEARS

Shaun Coglan, 23, from Hastings, committed the vicious, unprovoked attack while drinking in Bar Diva on February 7.

He was found guilty of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm by a jury at Hove Crown Court last Thursday after an eight day trial.

Coglan can reflect in prison on the catastrophic effect his actions have had on his victim.

After the attack, Robert Sullivan, who is in his 40s and from Hastings, not only lost the sight in his right eye but also his partner and job.

He is a carpenter by trade and the loss of his sight has meant it has been impossible for him to do his job.

Investigating officer DC Curtis said: "This attack has ruined the aggrieved's life.

"He is continuing to have operations on his eye in the hope that his sight will return."

DC Curtis explained that Mr Sullivan was celebrating a friend's birthday party at the Sedlescombe Road North pub when the callous attack happened.

He said: "Coglan walked up to the aggrieved and ground the glass into his eye. He continued to deny the offence throughout the court case, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary.

"We had over 100 names of witnesses to the incident, albeit we didn't use that many.

"Through the evidence of witnesses it was obvious that Coglan required a custodial sentence."

DC Curtis said Coglan was known to police and has previous convictions for assaults in Hastings.

The investigating officer paid tribute to members of the public who came forward and gave evidence.

He said: "The public has been brilliant. People were concerned about coming forward and the intimidation aspect.

"I would like to thank each and every one of the people who did come forward for their assistance."

Coglan, who pleaded not guilty, told the court he had been drinking in Bar Diva with people he knew. He claimed he had his drink spiked and couldn't remember the incident, but that was dismissed by the judge.